ENHANCEMENT OF SOCIAL INTEGRATION IN 192 INDIVIDUALS WITH WALKING DISABILITIES BY REHABILITATION ROBOTS

The use of rehabilitation robots is critical for fostering social integration among individuals with gait limitations. This study aimed to explore three main areas: first, the current status of rehabilitation robot usage among individuals with gait limitations across different life stages; second, whether personal, psychological, and social integration outcomes differ based on past experience with rehabilitation robots; and third, identifying factors that influence social integration in this population. Participants were recruited from clinical sites and community welfare centers, with approval from the Yonsei University IRB and informed consent obtained. A survey of 192 individuals with gait limitations found that 59.3% had used rehabilitation robots, primarily for indoor walking training (86.1%). Participants with prior experience using rehabilitation robots showed higher scores in social integration measures compared to those without such experience. Key factors for rehabilitation robot use included safety (44.1%), cost (30.5%), and convenience (23.7%), with an overall satisfaction rate of 68.6%. Multiple regression analysis identified rehabilitation robot experience as a significant positive predictor of social integration. These findings underscore the potential of rehabilitation robots to enhance social integration and quality of life for individuals with gait limitations, providing a foundation for future advancements in social rehabilitation.